Evaluating research findings for clinical applicability

Despite the emphasis upon research and research-related activities in nursing practice, the evaluation and subsequent utilization of research findings by those in direct contact with patients is minimal. Reasons for limited use include educational level of nurses, lack of availability of research findings to nurses in the practice setting and inadequate communication between nurses in the educational and service settings. Prior to using the findings from any research study, the study's findings must be evaluated. This process includes identification of the researchable problem or question, exploration of available completed studies, determination of applicability, implementation, assessment and evaluation. The final step of the process is the dissemination of the findings of the evaluation through inservice or continuing education programs or local, regional or national conferences. Publications also provide an avenue by which findings can be disseminated.